Once Upon A [Broken] Time

Stolen #3

by Samreen Ahsan

2015...
All her life, Myra Farrow has been obsessed with medieval castle-and the kings and princes who once inhabited them. When Steve Bernard, a wealthy videogame designer offers her to model for a princess character in his new game, Myra can't resist his offer to enter the mysterious, colourless, and cursed Hue Castle. But unknown to Myra, her soul is bound to it by blood and sorcery. When she enters the castle's doors, she awakens dark powers, time travelling through a cursed mirror, torturing her present, and rewriting her future, leaving Steve Bernard with millions of questions.

1415...
Edward Hue, the last of the Hue royal bloodline, has never stood in the sunshine, nor felt the rain, or held a living flower. Cursed from birth to live in darkness and bring death to all he touches, he is at the mercy of his cruel, tyrannical father King Stefan, who will not rest until he shatters Edward's soul and makes his son into a diabolical copy of himself. Edward's one hope is the mysterious woman, who walks into his life through a cursed mirror, out of his dreams, and introduces him: love.

Will Myra break Edward's curse and bring him out of the darkness, or destroy him utterly? Will Steve ever be able to finish his game without Myra? Past and future collide in a tale of love, obsession, betrayal, and the hope for redemption.
This is book 3 of [STOLEN] SERIES

366 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 31, 2021

About the author

History, art and literature are my passions. I love digging out information about prophecies, divine miracles, and paranormal events that are mentioned in history and holy books but don’t sound possible in today's modern world.

Since childhood, I have been into reading and writing—and yes, it can’t happen without imagination, which luckily has no boundaries. Dance and music are also pastimes I enjoy, as well as reading romance fiction. I love to travel and explore historical cities.

https://www.samreenahsan.com

Reviews

[Tina Rafii➹ lives in Fandoms · Rating 4 out of 5]

"ARC Provided By Author in Exchange for An Honest Review"
thank you!

the Stolen series by Samreen Ahsan:

Past & Present linked, in a captivating plot with beautiful heart-warming romance full of ups & downs. enjoyable ride knotted with mysteries

1) Once Upon A [Stolen] Time : ★★★★/5
2) Once Upon A [Fallen] Time : ★★★(★)/5
3) Once Upon A [Broken] Time:


4.5 Silver Stars
With Golden sparks



I always love the 3rd books in the series! the introductions are almost over, the characters starting their growth & our story slowly reaching the summit to turn on downhill.
This book was Captivating, pinning me in place to read it.

the Pace was perfect, dragging me inside the story, craving for more.
the story was intriguing, making more questions & made me read to get my answers. (or sometimes having more questions, but now my hypothesis started to swirl around my mind. we'll see which one is true)
the Romance was Beautiful, Emotional, Heartwarming & full of problems.
this series is my favourite Beauty & the Beast retelling.

I like Myra again, she's mature & strong & knows how to handle situations.
Edward, still had his issues, struggling inside, but we’re getting somewhere!
The Romance is my guilty pleasure!

Steve, Steve... (I kept reminding of a song that said "it's just me and you, and you and me &... your friend, Steve!" I guess I just hear that a lot recently, in the memes & fun videos!)
well, anyway, he sometimes annoyed me, for a few pages he even reminded me of Guston (I mean as I was wondering about their counter-characters personification in Beauty & the Beast, I wonder, yeah, maybe he is Guston.) but no, he is a good guy, I like the poor man, he's just desperate.

but, I totally, with all the cells of my being, hate King Stefan!

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

What is the best compliment you can give an author? To me it’s that I felt I was living the story alongside the characters and Samreen Ahsan put me right there in both time frames, feeling all each character is feeling!

ONCE UPON A (BROKEN) TIME is dark fantasy at its best. Emotionally charged, rich with atmosphere and a cast of characters that are simply incredible! Imagine a cursed castle from the past, its inhabitants forced to live in a colorless world, trapped with no escape. Then imagine one woman who is fated to discover the only means of reaching out to the past, to go there and to find her soulmate. Now imagine that all is not sunshine and roses, that evil lurks ahead, that danger is all around…but so is love, which is stronger? How do you leave your time, those you love behind? Can you? Can you break a curse that is centuries old?

Modern times and technology clash with a dark past and to change anything in either time could be disaster, but the heart knows what the heart wants? Can love conquer all?

Dark, edgy, and fantastic! A wonderful series to fall into and believe in!

I received a complimentary ARC edition from Samreen Ahsan! This is my honest and voluntary review.

Series: Stolen - Book 3
Publication date : March 31, 2021
Publisher: Samreen Ahsan
Genre: Paranormal Time Travel Romance
Print length : 290 pages
Available from: Amazon
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[The Color of Ink · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I want to start by saying reading this series in order is a must. So here we are, book number three...Yay! At this point in the series we've really gotten a sense of who the characters are and where their hearts are.

The story continues its smooth flow and the author is consistent in her storytelling. The POV the characters is interesting and it's great to see the character connections build and maneuver through the obstacles laid before them. I seem to be focusing more on the men in the story wondering if some hidden gem is about to show itself.

I'm used to more instant gratification in my reads, but this story is definitely keeping my attention. I can't wait to see how everything continues to unfold. Will Edward be able to show Myra how he feels? Will Myra be able to break the curse? And Steve? Only time will tell what decisions will be made and where, or rather when, everyone will end up. See what I did there? ;)

On a side note.. Why hasn't anyone else mentioned the quotes in the chapters? Love that!

[April ♥"LOS" ♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, much like the first two in the series, will take you on a twisting ride through a paranormal/historical romance.
Myra is still trapped in Hue Castle, in the year 1415, after slipping through a magical mirror. Day after day she discovers small differences about Edward and the castle, her being there seems to be slowly breaking the curse on the Hue family. However, the more time Myra spends in the past, the more obsessed King Stefan becomes with her and the idea that she is the witch Jasmine.
Will Myra be able to break the curse that plagues Hue castle and make it back to her own time? Or will she choose to stay by Edward’s side in the 1400’s?

[Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Cranky Stars


Myra is obsessed with medieval times and the Hue Castle is at the center of her obsession. Her friend Steven uses her knowledge and her to model as a princess in the game he is developing. As soon as she enters the castle, the castle awakens with dark energy and a cursed object causes Myra to travel back in time.


In book three, we are reunited with Myra and Edward Hue (the cursed prince). Myra makes him feel all the feelings, and above all else he feels hope for his cursed life. There are obstacles in his way, the evil and twisted King Stefan who has his eyes set on the beautiful heroine.


I am in love with Samreen Ahsan’s storytelling. She has weaved a magical web of suspense, drama, conflict, and amazing characters. As soon as I opened the book, I felt like I was a part of the time travel/historical times with Myra and Edward. I was captivated by the first book and I am still ensnared in the beauty of the words.

[A Book Lover's Emporium Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again my mind is blown in the best way possible!! The writing is flawless, I mean absolutely flawless. The story flows smoothly, is easy to follow along and sucked me right in. There were many times my heart rate kicked up with all the twists, turns and stones to uncover. I loved every second of it!

Edward is still broody and unable to express his love to Myra due to his belief in the curse. Myra is as strong, patient and curious as ever. I am very intrigued to discover the time Myra has to the castle and how this story will be wrapped up.

Overall, this series has overwhelmed by the historical accuracy, the twists and turns and all superstitions regarding the castle. This whole series had me so drawn in and left me wanting more and now I can't wait for book four.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon A [Broken] Time (Stolen #3) by Samreen Ahsan

Myra is asked by Steve a video game developer to be his muse for a new game. She accepts and they head off to Hue Castle, a place she has been mesmerized with for some time. But when she enters she is transported through a magical mirror to another time (1415) and becomes entwined in a long family curse. She has no idea what her future holds and what connection she has to the Castle and the Royal family that dwells within.

Hue Castle in 1415, Edward is trapped inside due to a curse. He is the son of an evil King (Stefan), under his Father's grasp with little hope of happiness, until a mysterious woman shows up. He is starting to feel a strong attraction to the woman. She may hold the power to lift the the curse if they can overcome the dangers withing the walls of Hue Castle.

The story moves at a steady pace alternating from modern day to 1415. The characters are well developed some likable others not. Myra is now inside the Castle but also has her family on the outside, wondering what happened to her. Edward is molded by his Father, yet I could feel kindness brewing inside (him). More secrets are revealed, as we get closer to discovering Myra's connection to Hue Castle.

Overall I found Once Upon A Broken Time very captivating and enjoyable. I highly recommend to those who love a fantastic dark fantasy. This is the third book in the Stolen series, I strongly recommend the first two as well. Once Upon A Stolen Time , Once Upon A Fallen Time

[Namrata Ganti · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book picks up where the previous one left off. Now that Myra has come back and decided to stay, she is forced to deal with both Prince Edward, the man she loves and the King, his father. Torn between her loyalty towards Edward and her need to be careful in front of the King, Myra is walking a very fine line towards trouble. The story follows her journey as she navigates this world, her scenes with Edward are heart-warming and filled with love. 

The author shows us different perspectives, brining the various characters to life. We follow the story from Edward's point of view as he struggles to hide his true feeling towards Myra from his father. He tries to protect her and also handle the fact that she has travelled through time to be with him. We also learn about steve, Myra's fiance in 2015 and the one behind the company Excalibur that is coming out with the game: Once Upon A [Stolen] Time, purely based on Myra's experiences and narration. 

It was a pleasure to read about so many characters and their different perspectives which bring Hue castle to life, both in 1415 and 2015. This story is well-written and gripping. It is a must read for fans of the series and romance in general! There is a lot that is happening, but this story is a quick read that lays down a path for the next book!

I truly enjoyed this book and as a fan of the series and Samreen Ahsan's writing, I must admit that I am now eagerly looking forward to the next book! I do hope Myra breaks the curse and they find their happy ever after in this intriguing Beauty and the Beast retelling!

[P Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would strongly recommend reading the books in order, as each book continues from where the last finished.

Myra and Edward were two halves of one soul and their love burned beautifully. Their love was passionate and all consuming - it took my breath away.

King Stefan gave me the creeps every time he touched or spoke to Myra.

I was captivated by the author’s story telling.

I’m dying to know how their story ends - is it going to be a happy or a sad ending? I hope it’s a happy one because poor Edward deserves a HEA with everything he’s gone through.

“I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*

[Tine’s Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

“A girl connecting the modern era with medieval times by talking to a reclusive and cursed prince through a mirror- Steve Bernard”

This is the third book in the series. I honestly thought this will be the ending but lo and behold– the saga continues.

The story is divided into 3 POVs, from Myra and Edward in the year 1415 and Steve in the year 2015 or in the present times. In the year 1415, more opportunity to get to know more Edward and how their love unfolds but it’s not easy for our love birds since a lot of answers that still need to discover.

“I couldn’t take any more of her love. I didn’t know if she was my redemption or damnation, but King Stefan was right–she would break me one day, and I had a feeling the wreckage was close-Prince Edward”

What I liked about Samreen is even if how troublesome some of the characters since it was set around the Medieval period, she wrote Myra as a strong woman. Whereas Edward still needs more character development and I will wait for it for the next books to come.

“Time is a thief that never gets caught-Steve”

Steve created a game named after Once Upon A [Stolen] Time and they shot the scenes on the Hue Castle. This game made a buzz because of how controversial the Hue Castle is. A messy world for him, because they were still looking for Myra, and his career and life are on the brink. To be honest, his story bored me sometimes and I know his relevance in Myra’s life even on the whole story but we’ll see how his development in the next books.

Overall, the third book is a good opportunity to know our characters as how the story unfolds. It’s easy to read and a short book that you can finish in a day or two. I don’t care about Myra anymore, my attention is now on Edward and Steve’s because I believe there’s something more about them. I will wait it for the next books to come.

So, if you’re into historical romance I highly recommended this series.

[Debbie Moumt · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's one of the best series I've ever read.
The author is amazing and it feels like I'm living in the story and the characters are incredible 🥰🥰

[thelostbookmark]

If you are in search of good twisted romantic story with pinch of mystery, you should give a shot to Stolen series. So well written, story will hold you till the end. Soul of book is actually its story and the way writer present it to us. No word, just outstanding word. I am sure i will gonna remember this book story for very long time

[Uzma Sultan]

I just love the book ❤️ The author have described the story in a very good manner. By the discription I feel like I am living in the story of this book. It is worth a read. You wont ever regret it.

[Manjusha Arun · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best series you can read for time travel and fantasy.the story gets so interesting its hard to leave it without completing.so hooked to it 👍Highly recommended series 😍

[Ruofu Zumvu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Completely captivated by this book that kept me glued with my phone. An excellent creative work I have read and came across a book with such splendid writing. The author has amazingly lay out the story line. It's really worth the read. Very much appreciated Author for the wonderful book yoy have written.

[Rose Mariya]

This book series is one of the best I've read. It really makes you feel things. Every details makes us to imagine the story very clearly. This book also holds good knowledge and wisdom. I am truly congratulating the author for weaving such a beautiful story.

[Jidda Muhd · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating and compelling books. I recommend it to anyone interested in historical/fantasy. Worth the read. The way the plots weaves is more than what I word. Mrs Samreen is an amazing author in ways beyond words.

[Aishatu Yayajo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent and exceptional book,its a must read 4 everyone! Keep d good work

[Myra Espino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a [Broken] Time is the continuation of the 2nd book of Stolen series, this series is cannot be read as a standalone so you shouod read it in order for you to follow the story.

Anyway, this book started where Once Upon a [Fallen] Time left off. In this book I fell in love with Edward. This book has so many unexpected events. I love how it doesn't have any boring scenes and it kept my interest althoughout. What I also love about this book is that the past and the present scenes are easy to follow. Loved it!

Looking forward for more of this series!

[Ellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Final Score - 4.5 Stars!

As before, I totally - with all the fiber of my being - abhor King Stefan! That man is slimy and sinister to the T. He's my main worry at the moment. Ugh, I need the next book like yesterday!

This book! It took me some time - as I started before I had to relocate - to get thru, because I wanted to make sure I soaked up all information, but finally I've finished! And events are starting to come to together!

Myra and Queen Jasmine - there is a definite connection there, but what? Is she a descendant? Is she the Queen reborn? Or is there some other explanation? We have to wait until the next book for more about Queen Jasmine but I have a feeling secrets are going to be revealed in a way I didn't see coming!

This book is captivating, and once you are sucked in - your in it until the end! This is my 3rd book of the series and I'm pinning (on hands and knees begging the author) for the next book because I need answers. Poor Steve needs answers too!

[Misan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first stumbled across this book in 2015 when it wasn’t finished yet. Awe. Samreen is one of the best, if not the best, authors I’ve ever read imo. I’m not one too read books a lot but I’ve been with this series for 7 years if I haven’t already stated how much appreciation I hold for this book series and it’s writer. Ever since I was captivated by the “A Silent Prayer” series in 2017, I haven’t never one regretted reading a Samreen book in fact it’s the main reason am still using the (wattpad) app. Ha! #wattpad2022 . It’s just wonders what true inspiration the one behind pen and paper provides for the eager.

[Abdullah · Rating 4 out of 5]

good book but not as good as the first two books. I still, loved it#wattpad2022

[Zoe Munkombwe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't stop reading this book, it just keeps you glued to it, excellent plot.

[Laura]

i really loveeee the story
i don’t know if there’s a hard copy book but i would really wanna buy it 😊